⚽ Spain records the first 0-0 of the 2026 World Cup, disappointing in their debut against Cape Verde

 

Spain records the first 0-0 of the 2026 World Cup

Cape Verde made their World Cup debut with a historic draw against La Roja.

Spain, one of the tournament favorites, could not break through the defensive wall set up by the Cape Verdeans. At the heart of that wall was Vozinha, the 40-year-old goalkeeper who stopped everything that came his way.

“Thanks to all Cape Verdeans around the world. Drawing against Spain, one of the best teams in the world, is a great pride,” Vozinha said in a post-match interview.

Vozinha becomes a star

The Cape Verdean goalkeeper was named man of the match and won the hearts of Portuguese-speaking fans. His Instagram account had 50,000 followers before the game; by the end of the 90 minutes, it had surpassed 1.5 million.

Cape Verde’s defensive strategy

For much of the match, Cape Verde sat deep, resisting the attacks of the reigning European champions. Their defensive approach neutralized Spain’s offensive power. Even with the late introduction of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams at the 70th minute, Spain could not break through. Dani Olmo also came on, replacing Ferran Torres, but the goal never came.

Spain’s frustration

Spain dominated possession and pressed hard in the final stages, pinning Cape Verde in their own half. Yet they struggled to find clear openings, relying mostly on long-range shots. Despite Pedri and Rodri orchestrating play, the decisive final pass was missing.

Tournament context

The 2026 World Cup is the first to be hosted across three countries — the United States, Mexico, and Canada — and features an expanded format with 48 teams in 12 groups of four. Spain is in Group H alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. To advance, they must finish in the top two of the group.